28/12/2011
As you sweat, you lose more than just water. During long periods of strenuous exercise such as marathons, long triathlons, tennis matches or other long athletic events, you lose significant amounts of sodium and other electrolytes in addition to significant amounts water. During these long events, drinking too much during can result in hyponatremia, a condition where blood sodium levels drop too much. If water levels are over-replenished, the body’s natural balance of water, sodium and other electrolytes can be disrupted. The body, in essence, becomes over-hydrated. Instead of drinking constantly during long periods of exercise, drink when you are thirsty, or be sure to intake enough sodium and electrolytes as you hydrate. Sports drinks are a great option to help avoid hyponatremia. Many of them contain the right proportions of sodium, other electrolytes and minerals that are essential when it comes to replenishing your body’s fluid levels.